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Home > Bugs > Bugs of Homes and Structures > Flour Beetles

Flour Beetles

Two flour beetles are common in Maine: the confused (Tribolium confusum) and the red (Tribolium castaneum). They primarily attack milled grain products, such as flour and cereals, and will be found in cake and pancake mixes, spices, powdered milk, chocolate, dried fruit and dry pet food. Badly infested flour is characterized by a sharp odor and moldy flavor.

confused flour beetle red flour beetle red flour beetle adult, larva and pupa
Confused flour beetle. Adults are shiny, reddish-brown, about 1/8 inch long. Adults do not fly. Red flour beetle. Similar in appearance to the confused flour beetle. Adults are strong fliers. Red flour beetle adult, larva and pupa.

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Identification and Control Information (each will open in a new window)

 

[Photos, left to right: Clemson University - USDA Cooperative Extension Slide Series, Bugwood.org; Peggy Greb, USDA Agricultural Research Service, Bugwood.org; Frank Peairs, Colorado State University, Bugwood.org]

 
It is the policy of the State of Maine to minimize reliance on pesticides. The Maine Department of Agriculture and the Maine IPM Council encourage everyone to practice integrated pest management and to use pesticides only as a last resort. The mention of pesticides in the fact sheets linked to these pages does not imply an endorsement of any product. Be sure that any product used is currently registered and follow all label directions.